Artist Highlight: Claire Coles
Meet Claire Coles, creator of these painted sea shells, a talented artist whose mixed media artworks and couture wallpaper murals combine techniques like appliqué, embroidery, and paint. Her work is often bespoke, commissioned to collaborate with a luxury brand or interior designer. Claire’s work blurs the line between interior decoration and fine art.
Inspired by the natural world, Claire’s art has a subtle, unobtrusive beauty that makes it seem alive. She combines silks, gold leaf, faux leathers, and freehand embroidery to create luxurious, textured pieces. All designs are handcrafted in her Norfolk studio.
✤ Q & A ✤
How did you get into art?
I have been passionate about drawing since childhood. I visited my aunt Alexandra in Miami every year and sketched the orchids and tropical plants in her garden. She was always supportive of my creativity. I feel most fulfilled when creating something, and I cannot imagine doing anything else!
Where do you find inspiration?
I am inspired by the natural world around me and look for inspiration in how pattern has been used to decorate our homes throughout the ages. Delft pottery tiles inspire my painted shells, and my recent artworks are a play on impressionist paintings and tapestry.
Favorite museum?
The Victoria and Albert Museumin London has a permanent collection of objects and textiles that provides an endless source of inspiration.The Perez Art Museumin Miami always has new contemporary works I haven't seen before.
Go-to hostess gift?
I enjoy giving handmade gifts and often turn to local artisans in Norfolk, such as Lise Marie for painted candles and Meg Louder for handmade paper poppies.
What makes a house a home?
Objects and artwork that remind me of holidays, loved ones, and friends are important to me. I also value knowing the story behind how something was made. For instance, I cherish my velvet cushions printed by my dear friend Aline Johnson, vintage coffee cups that belonged to my aunt, and paintings I bought while traveling.
Where do you go to unwind?
I visit France frequently, and my top pick for summer isÎle de Ré.I enjoy cycling to different villages, swimming in the sea, and indulging in Rose and oysters. Despite residing in the UK, I spent considerable time in Florida visiting my family and still relish visiting Miami!
What are you working on right now?
I launched a new collection in March. The artworks combine gold leaf with paint and collage, leading to several private residential and commercial commissions I am working on now.
I am exhibiting at the Interiors Fair Decorex in London this October.
Favorite artists?
My favorite artists are Michael Taylor, Marcin Rusak, and Nes Spoon. I discovered Michael's paintings last year and fell in love with his use of color and brushwork. His landscape pieces transport me to a tropical paradise. Marcin's work is inspiring, as he innovatively incorporates nature into his designs. And I adore Nes Spoon's lace creations.
Words to live by?
On Life: '"You live but once: you might as well be amusing." Coco Channel
On Art: "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." Pablo Picasso
